Finding the perfect painter shouldn’t require a stroke of luck
Painting your home’s exterior can do wonders for its curb appeal, not to mention protect your home from pests and weather—all while extending your siding’s life span. When it comes time to change up your home’s color (or freshen up its current shade), it’s important to hire a pro who can deliver the paint job of your dreams.
This guide will help you hire the best local exterior painter for your home.
While you may be anxious to get your exterior painting project underway, there are a few steps you should take before signing on the dotted line—or putting down a deposit.
Do an internet search for professional exterior painters in your area. Look for great reviews and high ratings on social and search sites.
Have you spotted a beautiful paint job in your neighborhood? Don’t be shy about asking neighbors who painted their house. Word of mouth is a tried and true way to find the best pros.
Confirm any potential painters are insured, licensed, and bonded to avoid any costly mishaps down the line.
Ask for a portfolio of their work—and references.
Knowing what you want to do with your paint job before interviewing painters will help you get an accurate quote. It will also set up the pro’s expectations about the job, including how long it will take. Things to take into consideration include:
Your budget: Painting a home's exterior costs $3,000 on average but can range from $1,800 to $4,300
Square footage of the area you want painted
The type of paint you’re eyeing
Whether the project includes trim, shutters, decorative scrollwork, porches, or railings
Your timeline (who wouldn’t want a fresh coat of paint in time for that family reunion BBQ?)
Once you’ve narrowed the field of potential exterior painters, here are a few questions you can ask them as you make your final decision:
How long have you been in this field?
What time do you start, finish, and take lunch each day?
Do you have equipment, or will you be renting?
Do you have hired staff or use gig workers?
How long do you anticipate this project to take?
How can I contact you during the project?
Be sure to talk to at least three painters before hiring one for the job. Watch out for painter scams and pitfalls. Remember, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Once you’ve chosen your exterior painter, it’s time to get down to the nuts and bolts. Here are a few tips to ensure your project goes off without a hitch:
A contract is vital to ensure the project runs smoothly. Your contract should cover the following:
Scope of project
Timeline from start to finish
Payment total and details on when payment is due
Deposit
Warranty and guarantees
Cleanup procedure
Keep track of hours and days worked and project progress, and schedule a time to talk to your exterior painter throughout the project to ensure everything is going according to plan.
When the job is finished, do a thorough inspection to ensure the work is up to your standards and meets the contract terms. If everything is in order, make final payment arrangements; discuss them with your painter if there are issues. You may need to add an addendum to the contract if more work is required.
If you’re satisfied with the work, be sure to leave a positive review for your painter.
